Effects of human activities on Kahe I forest reserve in Moshi rural district, Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to examine the effects of human activities on Kahe 1 Forest Reserve located in Moshi Rural District, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. Specifically aimed to (i) identify human activities performed in Kahe 1 Forest Reserve, ii) determine effects of human activities on the condition of Kahe 1 Forest Reserve, and iii) assess measures to address challenges facing Kahe 1 Forest Reserve. Data were collected using households survey, Focus Group Discussions, naturalistic observations and transect walk. A total of 75 head of households and forest officers answered the questionnaires. Results showed that human activities performed in the forest include illegal logging, cutting trees for firewood and charcoal making contribute to habitat loss, land degradation and deforestation. Suggested measures to address the challenges include prohibiting the unauthorized activities, regulating the activities and conduct monitoring using authorities like Tanzania Forest Services Agency and Village Environmental Committees. The study recommends involving communities in protecting forests and conduct periodic audits of the forest for strengthening the conservation and sustainable management of the forest. These results will contribute in laying down proper strategies to stop the ongoing encroachments and restore the degraded areas in Kahe 1 Forest Reserve.